Elder Berries

OverviewIntroductionEuropean elder is a plant native to Europe, Northern Africa, and Western-and Central Asia. Its flowers and berries have a long history of use in traditional European medicine. Elder berries have also been used for making preserves, wines, winter cordials, and for adding flavor and color to other wines.ConstituentsPotassium nitrate, sambucin, sambunigrin, sugars. The complex sugars of the berries are the immune-active fraction.Parts UsedMost commonly the flowers or berries. Dried fruits are less bitter than fresh.The branches and leaves are poisonous. The small stem which is sometimes left on the berry is safe.Typical PreparationsTeas, tinctures, encapsulations, syrups, wine, cordials, and even ketchup, often combined with propolis or echinacea.PrecautionsNone for flowers. According to the Botanical Safety Handbook*, the unripe and raw fruit, seeds, bark and leaves contain a component, sambunigrin, which may cause vomiting or severe diarrhea if ingested.*Michael McGuffin, ed., American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook, (New York: CRC Press, 1997)For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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